Description
There is an urgent need today to deepen and enrich the pastoral dimension of Sunday worship. This book attempts to meet that need. The practical guidance that is offered has its foundation in rigorous and comprehensive theological reflection. This reflection draws not only on the riches of the Christian heritage, but also on some wonderfully illuminating psychological research.
The conversation between the two disciplines yields some very interesting and important new ideas on worship as pastoral care. Each chapter consists of a theoretical base and a number of practical suggestions and resources. Most of the prayers, litanies, and rituals are original; there are also references to other useful worship resources. This book will revolutionize the way you think about worship as pastoral care.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Part 1: Reconciliation
1. Confessions of a Sly Psyche
2. Shame, Confession, and God’s Affirming GazePart 2: Lament3. Asserting Ourselves Before God4. Praying our AngerPart 3: Hope5. Hope Needs Witnesses6. Hopes Needs an Ironic ImaginationPart 4: Communion7. Individualization, Christianization, and the Sacraments8. Maintaining Self in CommunionBibliography
